Economy

A huge warehouse development in Nampa is one step closer to being built. Dubbed “Project Bronco,” the more than 850,000 square foot facility was given a conditional use permit this week by the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission.

The Great Recession ultimately left millions of Americans without jobs and devastated entire communities. The bruises have lingered, perhaps nowhere more so than in the industrial communities of our nation’s heartland, in places like Janesville, Wisconsin. Janesville was home to the oldest operating General Motors plant until it shut down in the midst of the Great Recession, two days before Christmas in 2008.

Looking at the past through rose-colored glasses is nothing new – we’ve been doing it in various forms for centuries. But when it comes to family life, that yearning for a simpler, happier time can be particularly potent. Mid-century television shows such as “Leave it To Beaver” and “Ozzie and Harriett,” celebrated the nuclear family, where Dad was the breadwinner, Mom managed the house and kids, and everything seemed to run smoothly. But was life really so great back then, or was this simply an illusion?

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When it comes to getting cash to make ends meet, many Americans don’t take their business to the local bank. Instead, they rely on alternative financial systems such as check cashing stores and payday lenders. Despite high interest rates and sometimes exorbitant fees, these services fill a vital need for those living paycheck to paycheck, and who, for a variety of reasons, distrust banks.

Even if the weather doesn’t feel particularly springy, AAA Idaho says you only have to look at gas station signs to know what time of year it is. Prices at Gem State pumps rose by 16 cents per gallon in the last week – putting it on the list of 10 most expensive states for fuel.

In recent years, the powerful and at times unexpected impacts of globalization have sent shock waves through our country’s political, economic and social systems. The promise that open trade and investment would bring new jobs, economic growth and price stability has not materialized for many Americans, who have seen their standard of living stagnate or diminish. At the same time, there is widespread disagreement about what our country needs to do to more effectively compete in the current global marketplace.

The cost of the traditional Thanksgiving meal is down. Food prices are at the lowest level in five years.

Let’s start with the turkey. The cost of a bird this year is down 2 cents per pound, making for a going rate of about $1.40 per pound. According to the American Farm Bureau, the cost of a big, beautiful 16-pound turkey is $22.38.

Homeless families in Boise face a challenge each day as overnight shelters close, leaving parents with small children on the street. Now one shelter is opening its doors during the day, to help both kids and parents.